The F-35 handles considerably different than most other fighter jets. The STOVL allows this jet to hover in the air and take off like a helicopter from a standstill. To accomplish the vertical takeoff, the player must throttle down (brake). After achieving liftoff, then you should use the afterburner to achieve optimal velocity.

Hovering in the F-35 is simple. What you have to do is continually throttle down and the jet will enter hover mode. Note however, the ability to hover is temporary, as this is also how the vehicle lands, so a player will have to gain velocity again if he or she wishes to remain airborne.